RAY MAGLIOZZI

Dear Car Talk: My 2015 Nissan Versa was due for its first transmission maintenance at 85,000 miles. There were no problems with it. But when I changed the fluid, I found little pieces of metal and a partial piece of what looks like a plastic clamp in there.

I finished the job, closed up everything, and drove the car for a couple of hours. I didn’t notice anything wrong. But then I decided not to drive it anymore until I find out if I should plan to replace the transmission. Any advice? — Erik

Have you ever seen those signs inside the dealership service department that read, “Customers are not permitted beyond this point”?

This is why, Erik. There are some things a car owner shouldn’t see. At least there was no costume jewelry or wristwatches in there.

Generally speaking, it’s not uncommon to find some metal grit or shavings in transmission fluid. This is from the wear and tear, over time, of the internal components. But if you find metal chunks or pieces you can actually pick up with your fingers, that’s a troubling sign.

And, in fact, your Versa has had significant problems with its CVT transmission. They’ve been so problematic that a class action suit forced Nissan to extend the transmission’s warranty to — wait, how many miles do you have on this? 85,000? The warranty was extended to 84,000 miles. No kidding.

The good news is that by changing the transmission fluid and getting that stuff out of there, you have likely extended the life of the transmission — whatever that life ends up being. So good for you. And in fact, for owners of 2015 Versas, changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles to protect the clutches and belts is now recommended.

But, if it’s working well, Erik, you can either cross your fingers, commit to it, put it out of your mind, and plan to change the fluid every 30,000 miles from now on. Or think about trading it in before the transmission starts producing Legos and pieces of Samsonite luggage.

Got a question about cars? Write to Ray in care of King Features, 300 W. 57th St., 41st Floor, New York, NY 10019, or email by visiting the Car Talk website at www.cartalk.com.